Portsmouth vs East Greenwich? (Providence, Newport: for sale, insurance, new home)

[Gibson1960]

Hi all,

I've been in RI for a few weeks now for a job assignment in Portsmouth and so far really love this area. I'll soon need to buy a home and will look here in Portsmouth but was curious if it would be nuts to look in East Greenwich as well (600K range)? I can get an idea of the Newport bridge commute right now, but have no clue what I'll be up against during treacherous winter bridge conditions or summer tourist traffic . . .

This assignment is only for 3-5 years, so I already have to have the new home's resale in mind (my employer's relocation package takes care of the expenses that would normally make owning a home for less than 5 years a losing proposition).

The commute aside, is East Greenwich a safer bet due to its more central location to the rest of the state and slightly higher school rankings when newcomers relocate here? Both towns seem lovely and safe with good school districts -- anything else important to take into consideration that favors one town over the other?

And realistically will a commute to Portsmouth from EG make life truly miserable?

Any advice will be appreciated. Thanks.

[Raiderman]

The bridge traffic is definitely a consideration in the Summer months, but it depends on the timing. My wife took some classes in Newport for a couple of Summers and found very little traffic before 8:00am. When she left the island, the traffic would be backed up. But, depending on from where you are coming, it is not heinous by any means.. but you can sit for a good 1/2 hour to 45 minutes depending on the time of day.

Both town are nice, but you may feel a bit secluded from the rest of the state in Portsmouth. East Bay/Aquidneck Island and the rest of the state are almost 2 separate states. If you are planning on enjoying Providence and the majority of the other towns, EG might make more sense for you. But Portsmouth gives you greater access to Newport, Bristol, Barrington, and the South Coast of Massachusetts.

If you want beaches and a more "touristy" atmosphere, Portsmouth would be better. A more suburban feel with access to the rest of the state, lean toward EG.

[Hollytree]

I would definitely buy in Portsmouth, Middletown, or Newport. No need to go as far as EG.
Portsmouth, Middletown, Newport hold their own just fine value wise. Naval War College & military a big draw.

[QuilterChick]

Originally Posted by Gibson1960

Hi all,

I've been in RI for a few weeks now for a job assignment in Portsmouth and so far really love this area. I'll soon need to buy a home and will look here in Portsmouth but was curious if it would be nuts to look in East Greenwich as well (600K range)? I can get an idea of the Newport bridge commute right now, but have no clue what I'll be up against during treacherous winter bridge conditions or summer tourist traffic . . .

This assignment is only for 3-5 years, so I already have to have the new home's resale in mind (my employer's relocation package takes care of the expenses that would normally make owning a home for less than 5 years a losing proposition).

The commute aside, is East Greenwich a safer bet due to its more central location to the rest of the state and slightly higher school rankings when newcomers relocate here? Both towns seem lovely and safe with good school districts -- anything else important to take into consideration that favors one town over the other?

And realistically will a commute to Portsmouth from EG make life truly miserable?

Any advice will be appreciated. Thanks.

Also investigate Tiverton RI, Bristol and Barrington RI; excellent resale in those popular areas and great schools. Anywhere in RI, get reliable info on the property taxes in the various towns and a seasoned full time Realtor (not a part-timer).

The market for resale homes in the Portsmouth area would be more of a narrow draw for buyers. The closer you get to Newport, the higher the prices and the nuttier the traffic.

[ocngypz]

Portsmouth taxes are much lower than East Greenwich.

Any commute to off island is a pain in the backside. Been there, done it. Hated it.

Of note, Portsmouth is at the tail end of full RE re-evaluation.

When there are high winds, they close the Newport bridge. It's the first to close because of its height. And it does ice badly in winter.

Portsmouth homes in your price range will have town water, but no town sewer. It'll be septic. Make sure the septic field is in the front yard, not back. Goes without saying to have a septic inspection.

Also, stay away from the water unless you want to go into cardiac arrest with the price of flood insurance.

The newer developments feed into East Main Road. Make sure there is a light at the intersection or you'll be spending an inordinate amount of time trying to cross traffic and risking your life.

And try to find a house with natural gas heat. You'll save bundles of money!

Middletown would work for you as well. However, there is not much for sale at your price point. And taxes are slightly higher than Portsmouth.